I love searching for budget friendly options for my organizing and decorating clients. If you pair a high-end item with a lower-end find those budget friendly items will have a more expensive look. The real big happy comes when you find top brand names at a discount store and score BIG. It’s like a decorator lottery win.

One of my go-to places is my local HomeGoods store. I check there often for simple styling ideas and containers of all kinds. I always have to give myself more time than planned for those moments when I’ve lost focus.

Take a look at what I came across today. I could decorate an entire room with items at HomeGoods. What fantastic finds have you come across lately?

…and this very cute rug.

I’d love to help you find the right items for your home. My organizing and decorating services include in-home and virtual options. Take a look here and email me.

I recently picked up a book called House Beautiful Style 101 by Lisa Cregan. It is full of 400 designer secrets and tips. I am such a sponge for all things design, style, and decorating. Reading magazines, books, and online everything is something I really enjoy doing but also need to do as a professional. I love flipping pages of pure pretty–and this little book is full of just that! (…and it fits into my purse for reading during carpool!)

I browse HouseBeautiful.com for project and space ideas, Pinterest sharing, and for collecting images to add to my idea library. These two spaces caught my eye today:

First, this entry is style simplified! It focuses on the art, includes function, and has the casual elegance I love.

This casual dining space includes mix and match seating, a rustic and neutral table, and has a focal point with this oversized, contrasting chandelier. Savvy Tip::One way of getting more mileage out of your table is by changing the chairs–matching all chairs is not necessary.

The table is styled with ease- casual and doable for any home.

The purpose of sharing designed spaces is so that you can take an idea or a concept and create it in your space- that’s inspiration. Share what has caught your eye lately!

I have a couple of projects coming up that need that calming, serene, and put-together feel. I’m wanting to use a monochromatic look with a variety of textures and patterns–creating a cozy, sophisticated space. This space from Ballard Designs addresses each of my requirements.

Sometimes all you need is a little inspiration. What image has inspired a project for you lately?

I am drawn to the airy, elegant, classic, and resort feel of a beach styled home. Let’s face it, we can’t all have a beach house or an ocean view; however, any home can capture the feel of one. It’s in the elements of that style that create the feel I enjoy.

What are your beach style elements? It may be adding a soft palette to a space with casual, relaxed furniture. You might even prefer a room with simplicity and vibrant pops of color.

image via housebeautiful.com

image via coastalliving.com

Beach style elements might have you thinking of bright whites and slip covered sofas that you can sink into…

{Having a beach styled home or elements of one does not have to be so beach-ish}

Nantucket island is one of my favorite places to visit–and if you have not been add it to your list! Take a look at these images from designer Christine Tse and author of the blog happy lady decorates. The beach elements I love (airy, elegant, comfortable…) are captured perfectly in this Nantucket home.

image via Elle Decor

image via Elle Decor

So, now do you want a home with beach elements in it? Or do you just want a beach vacation? Leave a comment!

I often change the feel of a space by moving around decorations, shifting furniture, and reorganizing shelves. However, sometimes adding a simple new find is a better solution when you’re feeling that your space needs new life. If you’re wanting to spruce up a space take a look at these weekly products picks and my recent favorite finds!

I love using risers to group items, add interest, and increase table space. These pedestals from Serena & Lily are vibrant and would add an eye-catching pop of color to any space.

http://www.serenaandlily.com/

Add some spice and splash of color to your dinning table (inside or out) with these colorful options from cb2.com.

http://www.cb2.com/

http://www.cb2.com/

Consider updating your space with new lamp shades — especially when they are this affordable! This geometric shade from Target.com has other color options and can brighten up any space. Target’s decorative line has many favorite finds!

target.com mix and match lamp

Do you have a new favorite find you’ve added to your home? Leave a comment. I love sharing back!

I’m Julie Montgomery, Atlanta based Interior Designer, and I specialize in helping busy professionals and families create a home that functions well for their lifestyle, represents who they are, and allows them to feel the way they desire to feel.